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Paper Presentation

Social Welfare Policy and Policy Practice

Session: Cannabis and Consequences: Mapping the Social Terrain of Legalization

Identifying socioecological and economic factors influencing marijuana legalization across the States of America

Utilizing the social determinants of health (SDOH) and system perspectives, this study identifies major socio-economic and ecological correlates and, measures their influences on marijuana legality across the US states. Findings suggest that policy context consisting of predictors representing SDOH domains strongly influences a state's policy approach to marijuana legalization.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this session, attendees should be able to:
  1. Upon completion, the participant will be able to identify the impact of social-environmental and economic determinants on states' marijuana policies being supportive or restrictive across the states.
  2. Upon completion, the participant will be able to understand the impact of supportive, moderate, and restrictive marijuana policies on young and adults’ health and well-being.
  3. Upon completion, the participant will be able to develop advocacy strategies for formulating appropriate marijuana use policies with sustainable solutions to the concern with a view to ensuring the well-being of community members.